Tiruchanoor Temple – Abode of Goddess Padmavathi Devi

Alternate Names

• Tiruchanoor, Tirukkadavuru, Alarmel Mangapuram, Tirusukanur, Vadirajapuram, Tiruchhikkanur
• All refer to the sacred town where Goddess Padmavathi Devi, also known as Alarmel Mangai, resides.

Mythological Origins

• At the end of Dwapara Yuga, Lord Vishnu, grieving separation from Mahalakshmi, performed penance for 12 years.
• Goddess Mahalakshmi manifested as Padmavathi Devi in the Padma Sarovaram on a 1000-petal golden lotus during Karthika Sukla Panchami, under Uttaradashada star.
• Sage Suka later performed penance here and received her blessings, giving rise to the name Tirusukanur.

Presence in Other Temples

• Nagulapuram: Goddess Padmavathi appears alongside Matsyavatara deity.
• Narayana Vanam: Site of divine meeting and blossoming love between Lord Srinivasa and Padmavathi Devi.
• Kayampeta (Appalayagunta): Engagement site; Lord worshipped as Sri Prasanna Venkateswara.
• Srinivasa Mangapuram: Marriage site; Lord known as Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy.
• Tirumala: Final ascent; Goddess resides eternally as Vakshasthala Lakshmi on Lord’s chest.

Temple History & Architecture

• Constructed by Sage Suka ~5000 years ago.
• Shanti Gopuram: Named for the peace-bestowing nature of the Goddess, aligned opposite Sri Krishna shrine.
• Streets like Suka Sannidhi Veedhi and Samajam Sannidhi Veedhi were built for Srivaishnava families practicing Pancharatra Agama.
• Renovated during 1820–1850 AD under Hathiramji Mutt.
• Krishnadeva Raya built key structures with 16 pillars each: Bangaru Vakili, Dhwajasthambham Mandapam, Aina Mahal, Maha Mandapam.
• Sub-temple of Sundara Raja Swamy lies south of Sri Krishna shrine.
• Temple spans 5 acres.

Sacred Gardens

• Friday Gardens: Adjacent 2.5-acre site where Ankurarpanam materials are collected; once nourished by Ponnakaluva Kalva.
• Tholappa Gardens: Named from Tamil “Tol” (shoulder) and “Appan” (Lord); believed to have emerged from Lord’s shoulders. Donated by Tatacharya’s successors.